Cardiac Clinic not challenging

[CardiacRNLA, BSN]

I am working at a cardiology clinic outpatient for a prestigious organization. I'm getting paid a great salary. But this position isn't what I thought. I thought maybe I'd do some wound checks, be cross trained to do echos/stress tests, some in-depth patient education. But no, basically I room patients, confirm medications are correct, pretty much a few computer clicks and move on to rooming the next patient.

An MA or even non-medical person could do my job. I'm grateful to get paid for such a job, but I feel like I'm not using my cardiology experience or other nursing skills. I can't leave my clinic. Just wondering if maybe I should take a second job that uses more in depth skills. I realize not all clinics are like this, but it just seems like a waste of skilled RNs. The RNs don't even have cardiac experience. I'm the only one! Any thoughts?

[Lossea, RN]

It sounds like you are seeking advancing your knowledge, to be challenged, and grow professionally, and your current organization does not provide this for you. It is great that it provides financial security, but it sounds like keeping your nursing skills sharp and using your experience is really important. If you have the time and energy for a second more challenging job, I say go for it! Most certainly, slow pace and predictable routine at a clinic is not for everyone. As a side note, I work in a cardiology clinic and, because we are a bit understaffed and are busy, each day is never the same. I think in clinics a lot depends on the provider(s) you work with. Some expect you to assess the patient critically and basically tell the provider what is wrong with the patient, while others are okay with doing it themselves. Good luck, I hope you find that place of professional fulfillment. :)